This new direct admissions program builds on a years-long collaboration between DePaul and Rosalind Franklin. (Photo by Joe Gaylor/DePaul University)CHICAGO – DePaul University and Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science are partnering to create a direct path from undergraduate study to health science degrees, including medicine, physician assistant practice, physical therapy and pharmacy.
Through a new direct admissions program, incoming undergraduate students can apply to DePaul and RFU simultaneously and earn direct admission to RFU when meeting academic requirements.
“The process of applying to medical school can be incredibly stressful for students,” said Stephanie Dance-Barnes, dean of DePaul’s College of Science and Health. “This direct admission program will not only attract top-tier students, but also provide them with a clear and structured pathway into their chosen healthcare careers. By reducing uncertainty, we are empowering students to focus on their studies and prepare for impactful futures in healthcare — fields that offer both financial stability and social mobility.”
Encouraging healthcare education in a time of need
DePaul’s science and health curriculum focuses on critical thinking, problem-solving and the human connection essential to patient care. Combined with Rosalind Franklin’s early exposure to clinical settings, dedication to interprofessional care and collaborative, evidence-based practice, this program gives students an opportunity to think holistically about the healthcare experience.
“RFU is working with trusted health systems and academic partners, like DePaul, to build the health workforce capacity our region needs,” said Provost Nancy L. Parsley, DPM, MHPE. “Our two institutions share a strong commitment to improving the health of communities by educating highly trained, compassionate and practice-ready professionals who will thrive in rapidly changing healthcare environments."
DePaul and RFU are building on a longstanding partnership. In 2012, the universities created the Pathways Honors Program to provide students with pre-professional advising, research opportunities and accelerated degree options. Participants in the new direct admit program will also benefit from these established connections.
DePaul Pathways students have access to RFU research opportunities and benefit from RFU’s more than 100 clinical partnerships within the Chicago area. The direct admission program will mirror many of these benefits, including curricula and programming specifically designed to prepare students for the rigors of graduate health professions programs and support their success. Direct-admit students will have access to unique research opportunities and explore issues with classmates who are pursuing related careers in healthcare professions.
“DePaul students go on to live and work in Chicago, with more than 210,000 alumni in the area,” said Salma Ghanem, DePaul provost. “Chicago has a great need for compassionate, highly skilled healthcare workers, and DePaul and RFU’s shared values prepare students to care for their communities.”
The first cohort of this program will begin in fall 2026. Interested students must apply through the Common App to be considered for admission. More information is available on the
DePaul website. ###
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